Client gone AWOL, what to do?

Hi guys,
I started my business a few months ago and so far (knock on wood) it's going OK!
I shot a family photo shoot with this nice family a few weeks ago. They said they wanted the photos to make holiday cards. It went pretty well. After about 4-5 days, I sent an email letting them know their pictures are on my site, how to purchase prints, etc. Nothing. My website log tells me they have NOT viewed their photos. I waited another 4-5 days, then called the client's cell phone. It went to message, so I left a message saying pretty much the same thing, you know, please check your email for instruction details, call me back with comments/questions, etc. Still nothing. They still have not viewed their photos. Now, it's been another 10 days. Do I do anything? The family already paid for my session, so they don't owe me any money. I am a little disappointed they didn't see their photos because I think they came out nice. Also, I am starting to get a little worried - did something happen to them!?!? I have no indication they are upset or anything like that (in which case, you'd think they will still want to at least see the photos even if they don't buy anything, right?).

So my questions are
1) Does this happen to other photogs? Seems odd to me, but I don't know.
2) Do I do anything at this point or just move on?

Shoot wasn't paid for in advance (or at least a 50% deposit in advance?)

FlyingPhotog wrote in post #15331018
Shoot wasn't paid for in advance (or at least a 50% deposit in advance?)

"The family already paid for my session, so they don't owe me any money."

Wayne

FlyingPhotog wrote in post #15331018
Shoot wasn't paid for in advance (or at least a 50% deposit in advance?)

posted by syclarac:

Drive by there house?
Call the police?
I'm sure its something silly, prolly out of the country.
But what if they are being held hostage or were eaten by zombies?

I'd like to think some one would look into me if I didn't answer the phone.

This has happened to me. Move on. Sometimes #hit happens and the client has more pressing issues. It isn't a reflection on you.

Had that happen a few times before. There's been a good reason every time so far.

You can either move on, or do something like post them a disc of the images (in whatever format is fitting based on your agreement ie low-res watermarked if they're selecting for more purchase from you, or even a few high-res non-watermarked of your choice... whatever your agreement was) with a note that says "I haven't heard from you since the shoot but I know it's that crazy time of the year, so I thought I'd send you some images - hope you love them!" -- or something like that.

Either one is a valid option. FWIW I'd go with the latter

happened to me too. did a maternity shoot, got paid in advanced she loved the photos, now i text call and no answer. I know from a friend she had the baby and all is well, and will return to work on the 17th. so will see what happens then.

Thanks for all your replies! I'm just starting out, so I was looking forward to the oohs and aahs from a client, you know? Oh well. So I guess these things do happen huh? Fester, I did think about driving by. I don't know, creepy, right? Habro I like your idea of sending them a disc of low res files for them to view. But then again, maybe they just ended up buying holiday cards from Hallmark!

I wouldn't stalk them or even send a disk unless the contract says they get one. I'd just chill.

Sometimes you don't get oohs and aahs even from clients who are in love with the photos because they just aren't the gushy type. It sounds cynical but money is my pat on the back. If I want oohs and aahs I'll put them on facebook. Everything gets Likes on there.

I don't see where the problem is. They paid for the shoot, you did the shoot. Anything further can happen whenever they get around to it.

I wouldn't try to contact them again, or do anything further - it may be bothersome to them. If they're really anxious to see their photos, they will do so. If not, so be it. . I don't think there's anything to worry about, or to be concerned about.

I wouldn't worry about it either....they may have went another route with Christmas cards and they just haven't put a priority on sitting down to look through the photos. You've upheld your end so just let it go and if they call you for an order down the road, all the better

Channel One wrote in post #15331146
"The family already paid for my session, so they don't owe me any money."

Wayne

They didn't pay enough. If they were out $250 or more, they'd be more attentive.

For my business, if they hadn't paid at least $250, then I'd be in the red on that job.

It's very strange, but I also have clients who paid for shoots and then do not respond to follow up communication for 6+ months or ever. After 3 attempts to contact them with the info they provided- all you can do is wait for a response. I keep a permanent archive on SmugMug of my final Client Images available through an email link. There other problems or drama are not your concern.

-Scott